Trade Commissioner Marosz Szefcovic’s recent visit to the United States did not result in the anticipated agreement, according to KE spokesperson Olof Gill, who spoke on Thursday. However, he noted that the trip did help to strengthen ties with the new US administration.
During his stay, Szefcovic aimed to persuade members of the administration about the detrimental effects of imposing tariffs on the EU, emphasizing that such measures are harmful to both parties.
Gill highlighted that the commissioner’s visit provided a platform to reiterate the EU’s stance on trade issues in Washington, articulating why the use of tariffs and retaliatory tariffs is counterproductive. He stressed the importance of seeking mutually beneficial agreements instead of resorting to such measures.
“The discussions between the European Union and the US administration are ongoing, and we hope these talks will yield positive results rather than negative ones,” he added.
Currently, the Trade Commissioner is in China where discussions focus on exploring opportunities in EU-China trade relations.
“This encompasses various priorities the EU wishes to advance, including reciprocity, transparency, and more stable access to Chinese markets under fairer conditions for our companies,” he stated, though he did not provide specific details.
When asked about the US’s recent announcement of additional tariffs on car imports, Gill referred to it as “an act of economic self-harm by the United States.”
“From this point forward, we will prepare for a proportional, firm, well-calibrated, and targeted response to any future measures announced by the United States. The final list of products for which we propose remedies to our member states will be selected to maximize impact on the United States while minimizing effects on our European economy,” he explained.
However, he did not specify a timeline for the EU’s response, assuring that it would be timely, robust, and effective.
The US administration announced on Wednesday that starting April 2, a 25 percent tariff will be levied on all imported cars and light trucks, a significant increase from the previous rate of 2.5 percent.
MEP Bernd Lange, chair of the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee, remarked that “President Trump has single-handedly made new cars in the USA significantly more expensive. Under the guise of national security and using arbitrary criteria, he seeks to justify various illegal and harmful tariff measures, disregarding the adverse impact on workers, businesses, and consumers,” he observed.
He further noted, “It appears that escalation is necessary before the USA is willing to engage in negotiations. One thing is certain: we will not allow the USA to use coercive tactics against us. We are prepared for any scenario and will respond decisively. Our current measures on steel and aluminum are insufficient. If the USA unlawfully threatens our core economic interests, the EU should consider implementing tariffs on digital services where the USA enjoys a significant trade surplus,” he emphasized.
The new US tariffs on cars are scheduled to take effect on April 2, alongside “reciprocal tariffs” designed to align with those imposed by other nations. Trump has referred to this day as “America’s liberation day.”
The President believes that this decision will incentivize foreign companies to increase car production in the USA and encourage others to relocate their factories there. He also stated that the tariffs are expected to generate an additional $100 billion for the budget, are deemed “permanent,” and will not have any exemptions. (27.03.2025)
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